What can be done for a prolapsed uterus?
Uterine prolapse generally refers to the prolapse of the uterus. In general, uterine prolapse may be caused by childbirth injuries, prolonged increased abdominal pressure, pelvic floor muscle relaxation, anterior or posterior vaginal wall prolapse, second-degree uterine prolapse, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through rehabilitation exercises, medication, and other treatments. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Childbirth injury: During delivery, excessive stretching and damage to the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments weaken the supportive forces for the uterus, causing the uterus to descend. Heavy physical labor should be avoided too early postpartum. Pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation exercises, such as Kegel exercises, should be performed within 42 days postpartum. Each contraction of the pelvic floor muscles should last 3-5 seconds followed by relaxation. It is recommended to perform 3 sets daily, with 15-20 repetitions per set, to enhance pelvic floor support.
2. Prolonged increased abdominal pressure: Chronic constipation, long-term coughing, or frequent lifting of heavy objects can lead to sustained elevation of abdominal pressure, pushing the uterus downward. This is commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly women. To alleviate constipation, consume more dietary fiber-rich foods such as celery and oats, and drink 1500-2000 milliliters of water daily.
3. Pelvic floor muscle relaxation: With aging or hormonal changes, pelvic floor muscles lose elasticity and become relaxed, failing to support the uterus, causing a sensation of lower abdominal heaviness. Pelvic floor muscle electrical stimulation therapy should be performed under a doctor's guidance, and medications such as Buzhong Yiqi Pills, Astragalus Granules, and Ren Shen Jian Pi Pills should be taken as prescribed to assist in improving pelvic floor muscle relaxation.
4. Anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapse: Weakness and bulging of the anterior and posterior vaginal wall tissues indirectly lead to abnormal uterine support structures, causing uterine prolapse, often accompanied by abnormal urination or defecation. Mild prolapse can be managed with vaginal weight training for rehabilitation, strengthening the vaginal wall muscles. Moderate prolapse requires the use of a pessary as directed by a physician to support the uterus and vaginal walls and alleviate prolapse symptoms. Severe prolapse may require anterior and posterior colporrhaphy to reinforce the vaginal wall tissues.
5. Second-degree uterine prolapse: Part of the uterus protrudes outside the vaginal opening, with severe damage to the pelvic floor support structures, accompanied by a noticeable sensation of heaviness and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Medications such as Nylestriol tablets, conjugated estrogen cream, and estriol cream should be used as directed by a physician to improve local tissue elasticity.
Daily activities should avoid prolonged standing or squatting to reduce downward traction on the uterus. Choose loose and breathable underwear, maintain external genital hygiene, and prevent infection of the prolapsed tissues due to friction. Long-term rehabilitation training combined with standardized treatment can gradually improve uterine prolapse and maintain reproductive health.